Iowa State University
College of Human Sciences


Step 1: Select Course and Register

Review the courses offered through the College of Human Sciences Office of Distance Education.

Once you've determined the course(s) you would like to enroll in, complete the distance education registration form to begin the registration process.


Step 2: New Student Letter

As a new student to Iowa State University, you will receive a letter from the Registrar's office in the postal mail. Please be sure to read the information included in the letter thoroughly as it will help with your distance education experience and may answer many questions.


Step 3: Establish Your AccessPlus Account

AccessPlus is your secure and personalized online resource for accessing important and confidential university information such as university bills, grade reports, and transcripts. Iowa State no longer mails paper bills or grade reports; students are required to log into AccessPlus to view this information.


To establish your AccessPlus account:

  1. Go to http://www.accessplus.iastate.edu
  2. The Login Method is a drop down menu. Choose Social Security as Login Method.
  3. Enter your Social Security Number as your Login ID.
  4. The first time you log into AccessPlus your password will be initially set to your month and date of birth (i.e. August 12 = 0812).
  5. After successfully logging in, you will be prompted to change your password and log in again.

Step 4: Retrieve Your University ID Number

This randomly assigned university identification number will be used for different services at Iowa State as well as for obtaining your Net ID. You can obtain your University ID in AccessPlus.

Once you log into AccessPlus with your new password, you will find the link to ISU ID's in the upper left hand corner. You will need your University ID to register for your Net-ID (email).

If you would like an official ISU card, please send a request to distance@iastate.edu.


Step 5: Register for a Net-ID

Once you have retrieved your University ID, you will be able to set up your Net-ID. Your Net-ID will be used to set up your email account and to login to the online course portal system, WebCT.


To setup your Net-ID:

  1. Go to http://www.asw.iastate.edu
  2. In the left column, click on "Need to register for a Net-ID?"
  3. Follow the instructions on the page. Call the Solution Center at (515) 294-4000 for assistance.

Step 6: Access Webmail

An ISU email account is automatically set up when you establish your Net-ID. Your email address will be your Net-ID followed by @iastate.edu. To check your ISU email account, log into the university's WebMail system.

ISU policy requires that communication is done by email. It is important to establish this account as soon as possible. You are responsible for checking this account frequently for important messages.

To forward email from your ISU email account:
(note this system will not forward to a Hotmail account)

  1. Go to http://asw.iastate.edu and log in.
  2. Click "Manage User (your Net-ID)".
  3. Click on "View/Edit your e-mail delivery".
  4. The next screen gives three options:
    • Delivered to my POP server for pickup with Eudora, Netscape, Outlook, etc.
    • Forwarded to:
    • Disabled
  5. To have your email forwarded to another email address, select "Forwarded to" and enter the address you'd like your mail to be forwarded to in the text field.
  6. Click on "Update Now". You will be taken to a screen that is nearly identical to the previous screen, except that "Database updated" will appear at the top. Note that changes made before midnight will not take effect until after midnight. Call the Solution Center at (515) 294-4000 for assistance.

Step 7: Textbooks

Students are responsible for purchasing the correct textbooks and course materials required for each course.


Step 8: Test Your Computer

Distance education courses require certain computer capabilities. While the specific requirements may vary by course, your computer should meet or exceed minimum requirements (be sure to work through the two computer compatibility programs provided with the minimum requirements).


Step 9: WebCT

Most distance education courses utilize WebCT, an online course portal system, for communications, assignments, testing, and course content. It is imperative that you have access to this site and be able to use it fully.

Once your registration has been processed, your instructor must then give you permission to view the course in WebCT. Instructors typically have permissions in place one week prior to the course start date (or earlier).

Access WebCT. If you are having trouble accessing or using WebCT, please visit the WebCT Support Site or Contact Us.


Step 10: eLibrary

The e-Library provides access to the collections and services of the ISU Library. Materials are accessible by registered ISU students at all times. Images are available in PDF format using Adobe Acrobat Reader.

To access materials, you will need your ISU email account and University ID. You will need to establish a personal identification number (PIN) to use the library site.


Step 11: Proctored Exams

Some instructors/courses may require a proctor for exams. A proctor is an individual who can supervise all exams taken during the course. Questions regarding proctors should be directed to your instructor. View the Proctor Identification Form.


Step 12: Grades/Transcripts

Grade reports are not mailed and must be viewed on AccessPlus. Grades are available one week after the end of the semester.

Unofficial transcripts are also available on AccessPlus. Official ISU transcripts can be ordered through AccessPlus and charged to your university bill. Your transcript can be mailed to the address of your choice.


Step 13: Other Notes

Once your registration for a course has been processed, you will receive an email with critical dates for the term (including information regarding dropping or withdrawing from a course).

You may also receive a course letter with pertinent information about your course, including course dates, location, required textbooks, and more.

Finally, you may receive surveys or questionnaires requesting feedback on your on distance education experience. Your time and participation is appreciated to help us improve the support and services offered.